Summary:

Replacing metal with long fiber thermoplastics (LFTs) offers significant advantages in weight reduction, manufacturing efficiency, and product differentiation. By understanding the properties and applications of LFTs, optimizing design and manufacturing processes, and leveraging Avient's expertise in material selection and conversion methodologies, manufacturers can successfully implement metal replacement strategies.

Who should attend:

Designers, Engineers, and Product Developers Focused on Structural Components and Lightweighting.

What you will learn:

Metal-to-plastic conversion is a commonly discussed topic amongst engineers in automotive, aerospace, and outdoor high-performance industries. This talk will unpack why metal has historically been used in these industries, why engineers are now considering a shift to plastics, and what materials may suit their needs regarding lightweighting objectives and performance requirements.

1. Why Metal is Used Today:
   • Discuss the historical and current applications of metal in various industries.
   • Highlight the properties that make metal a preferred choice for certain applications.
2. Reasons for Changing to Long Fiber Technologies (LFTs):
   • Examine the drivers behind the shift from metal to long fiber thermoplastics.
   • Explore the advantages of LFTs in terms of weight reduction, cost savings, and performance.
3. Understanding Long Fiber Technology:
   • Analyze the properties and benefits of long fiber thermoplastics compared to metals.
   • Discuss the manufacturing processes and design considerations for LFTs.
4. Methodology for Metal Conversion:
   • Present Avient's approach to transitioning from metal to LFTs.
   • Highlight key steps in the conversion process, including material selection and design optimization.
5. Case Study:
   • Review a real-world example of metal replacement with LFTs.
   • Discuss the challenges faced and the solutions implemented to achieve successful outcomes.

How Avient can help:

Below are strategies that manufacturers can use to replace metal with LFTs and the relevant Avient solutions that can help.

1. Material Selection and Design Optimization: Select appropriate LFT materials based on application requirements such as mechanical properties, thermal stability, and cost. Optimize product design to leverage the benefits of LFTs, such as reduced weight and simplified production.
   • Avient's expertise in material selection and design optimization can guide manufacturers in making informed decisions for successful metal replacement.
2. Manufacturing Process Adaptation: Manufacturing processes must be modified to accommodate LFTs, including adjustments in molding techniques and assembly methods. Further, challenges related to processing LFTs, such as maintaining fiber orientation and achieving desired surface finishes, must be addressed.
   • Avient can assist in adapting manufacturing processes to ensure efficient production of high-quality LFT components.
3. Methodology for Metal-to-LFT Conversion: Emphasize not merely substituting one material for another but integrating design, material, and process to maximize the benefits of the material change. Consider factors such as part geometry, load-bearing requirements, and environmental conditions in the conversion process.
   • Avient's application, development, and technical services support the successful implementation of this methodology, offering expertise in material selection, design optimization, and process adaptation to achieve optimal results in metal replacement.